What to do with cremation Remains?

When a family chooses cremation, they must consider what to do with the cremated remains (ashes) of their loved one. As the rate of cremation rises, so do the options for memorialization after the cremation service.

Cremated remains are typically placed in an urn (cremation container) and are presented to the family after the cremation service. Urns are made of wood, metal, clay and many other materials and come in an almost unlimited number of styles and personalization options.

If you are interested in alternatives to placing the urn on a mantle at home, following are some common and not so common options for permanent memorialization.

Burial of Cremated Remains

This is similar to a traditional burial with a casket and vault. The only difference is that it’s an urn. Most cemeteries offer this type of burial. Some may require a cremation vault which is a metal or concrete box that the urn would be placed in. This urn vault acts as a protective container for the urn. Some cemeteries have a section set aside specifically for this called an “Urn Garden”.

Cremation Niches

A newer option of permanent memorialization is the cremation niche. Placing the urn in a niche is a way of burying it, just not underground. A cremation niche is a space in a columbarium which holds urns similar to the way a mausoleum holds caskets. Niches are available at many cemeteries and can be indoor or outdoor. Costs vary by location and cemetery. Read More

Scattering Ashes

Scattering the cremated remains in a place that was meaningful to your loved one is gaining popularity. That might be over water, at a favorite park, etc. Permission and permits may be required for certain spots such as state parks, privately owned property, etc. There are many other options including aerial or at sea scattering that are also popular. Read More

Cremation Jewelry

Cremation jewelry keepsakes have become popular ideas for families. Cremation jewelry allows a sharing of your loved one’s remains and provides a sense of connection to the one you lost. The jewelry can be a small vial with a portion of the remains or an actual diamond stone made from the ashes. Pendants, earrings, bracelets and rings
are the most popular items. Often the family engraves dates or a memorable quote from the deceased on the jewelry to accompany and preserve the memory. Read More